Proper post-game recovery helps hockey players maintain peak performance and prevent injuries. 

The pro-grade equipment from Lowry Sports was designed to ensure players are ready for their next game. 

Here are some best practices for post-game recovery, taking advantage of the high-quality gear offered by Lowry Sports.

Hydration and Nutrition

Proper hydration and nutrient replenishment can significantly improve recovery times and overall performance.

Hydration

Replenishing fluids lost through sweat is vital to prevent dehydration, which can impair muscle function and post-game recovery. 

Some best practices for hydration to keep in mind include drinking at least 500 mL of water two hours before the game and sipping water regularly during the game. Post-game you should drink at least 500mL of water and continue hydrating for the next few hours.

Lowry Sports provides a range of water bottles designed for athletes:

Tall-Boy Bottle with Pro Style Cap: Features an 850 mL capacity and a patented valve system for easy drinking during intense activity.

Stubby Bottle with Pop Top: A compact 600 mL option that fits easily in gear bags.

Clear Shaker Bottle: Ideal for mixing protein shakes or electrolyte drinks, holding 700 mL.

Nutrition

Post-game nutrition helps replenish glycogen stores, repair muscle tissue, and reduce inflammation. Immediately post-game, players should consume carbohydrates and proteins to kickstart recovery.

Aim for 1-1.2 grams of carbs per kilogram of body weight to replenish glycogen stores, and include 20-25 grams of protein to support muscle repair. Use a shaker bottle to mix and drink a protein shake with protein and carbs for optimal post-game recovery.

Muscle Recovery and Pain Management

Post-game muscle recovery and pain management are essential to ensure athletes perform at their best and prevent injuries. 

Here are some best practices and products for muscle recovery and pain management:

Cold Therapy

Cold therapy reduces inflammation and swelling and numbs sore tissue to reduce pain. Lowry Sports has an Instant Cold Pack that is perfect for immediate use after games to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. 

Players can apply the cold pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, repeating every 1-2 hours for the first 24-48 hours post-game.

Heat Therapy

Heat therapy increases blood flow to sore muscles while helping soothe and relax them. 

Reusable heat packs applied after the initial 48 hours post-injury for 15-20 minutes can be helpful for players looking to reduce soreness.

Compression and Support

Compression reduces muscle fatigue, enhances circulation, and helps reduce swelling. Compression gear can be worn during and after games to speed up post-game recovery.

The gear should fit snugly but not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow.

Lowry Sports offers Multi-Sport Knee Pads that provide support and protection during recovery sessions and are useful during light exercises. 

Compression shorts and pants offer muscle support and are made with moisture-wicking materials to keep the body dry and comfortable.

Stretching and Flexibility

Stretching and flexibility exercises, when mixed into post-game recovery routines, help prevent muscle stiffness, enhance flexibility, and improve range of motion.

Stretching relaxes the muscles and prevents stiffness after a game. Regular stretching increases the range of motion in joints and muscles, reducing the risk of injuries and contributing to better performance by allowing a full range of motion during play.

Dynamic Stretching (Pre-Game):

Leg Swings: Stand on one leg and swing the other leg forward and backward. Repeat 10 times on each leg to loosen up the hips and hamstrings.

Arm Circles: Extend arms out to the sides and make small circles, gradually increasing in size. Perform for 30 seconds in each direction to warm up the shoulder muscles.

Static Stretching (Post-Game):

Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the ground with one leg extended and the other bent inward. Reach towards the toes of the extended leg, holding for 20-30 seconds. Repeat on the other leg.

Quad Stretch: Stand on one leg, pulling the opposite foot towards the buttocks. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then switch legs.

Shoulder Stretch: Bring one arm across the body and hold it with the opposite arm. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then switch arms.

Flexibility Exercises

Foam Rolling: Foam rolling can help release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Use a foam roller on major muscle groups like the quads, hamstrings, and back for 1-2 minutes each.

Yoga: Incorporating yoga poses such as the downward dog, cobra, and child's pose can enhance flexibility and promote muscle relaxation.

Hygiene and Equipment Care

Maintaining proper hygiene and equipment care after games is essential for both the longevity of gear and the health of the players. Specialized sports equipment cleaning products can help you keep equipment clean, functional, and ready for the next game.

Proper equipment sanitization reduces the risk of infections and illnesses caused by bacteria and other pathogens. It also prevents unpleasant odors and keeps gear fresh.

The Lowry Sports Sport Clenz Equipment Sanitizer is a non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable spray that kills 99.9% of common MRSA bacteria. It contains no added fragrances, perfumes, or dyes, making it safe for regular use on all types of equipment. 

The Visor Clear Anti-Fog Spray helps maintain a clear view by preventing fog and static buildup on helmet visors.

A Better Routine for Better Recovery and Performance

Incorporating these best practices into a post-game routine can optimize your recovery, keeping you at the top of your game. Lowry Sports’ top-tier equipment is the perfect partner for an efficient and effective post-game routine. 

For more information and to explore the full range of post-game recovery products, visit Lowry Sports’ website or contact us directly.